'I went to sleep in the chair, and I remember nothing more,' said Willie.
'There's been some dirty work here,' said Jim. 'Let me find out who has done it, that's all.'
'Shall I be able to ride to-morrow?' asked Willie. 'My head seems to go round and round. Oh, I do hope I shall be able to ride Neptune.'
'Don't worry about that, Willie,' said his father.
'After a good night's rest you will feel better,' said Dr Tom. 'I think you will be able to ride. I'll fix you up with a good nerve tonic in the morning.'
Willie smiled faintly; his head was very painful and ached badly.
He was put to bed and a sleeping-draught given him; after which he rested peacefully.
'We must get to the bottom of this business,' said Jim. 'I should not wonder if Dalton had a hand in it. He'll find he has gone a step too far if I can sheet it home to him.'
'That blow might have killed him,' said Dr Tom. 'It must have been a heavy weapon he was struck with.'
'Is there any danger?' asked Jim, anxiously.